Guruvayoor Utsavam Festivals - ഗുരുവായൂര്‍ ഉത്സവം

Temple Festivals (Ustavam)

Utsavam means feast and festival specially in temples whether of Siva, Vishnu or of any other deity, male or female. These lasts generally from five to ten days. They do not take place in March. Each temple has its own period of Utsavam, but they never come during the rainy season.

There are three sorts of Utsavams 1) Patahadi 2) Dhwajadi and 3) Ankuradi. In temples all the three are celebrated.

The grand Guruvayur festival in Kerala is a major draw for the tourists across the world. The city seems bubbling with joy and fervor as the festival days approach toward the middle of March. The gorgeously decorated elephants, splendid illumination with tall traditional lamps make for a sight to behold.

The temple, constructed between 16 and 17 century is one of the foremost religious sites in Kerala. The presiding deity here is 'Guruvayurappan' (Lord Krishna). The temple still maintains its conservative norms and allows only Hindus inside. Elaborate rituals are performed regularly. Legend has it that, the rites were originally prescribed by the Hindu prophet Adi Shankaracharya who hailed from this part of Kerala. The most striking thing about the temple is that here the elephants are still are integral part of the regular rituals while in the other temples of Kerala, they are used only at the time of festivals.

The 10-day Guruvayur festival signifies the occasion of restoration of divine Chaitanya (conscious). An elephant race inaugurates the festival. This is a unique event. The winning elephant is conferred with the honor of carrying the idol of the deity. The Guruvayur festival also showcases the cultural heritage of the region as the locals perform the traditional dances and music. The enticing dance dramas based on the myths and legends of Lord Krishna's life are regular proceedings during the festival days.

Guvayooor Ekadashi

Guruvayoor is a village near Chavakkad, about 35 km from Trichur. There is an important temple located there dedicated to Krishna - Guruvayur Sree Krishna temple which is held in great reverence and resorted to largely by the Hindus throughout Malabar, Cochin and Travancore. Those who are ill, specially rheumatic patients make vows to make offerings in this temple. The festival of Ekadasi is celebrated here in the Malayalam month of 'Vrischikam'. Besides the devotees, there are those who come to take part in the annual fair. Merchants erect booths in front and behind the temple and carry on trade in various articles. The celebration with in the temple consists of Pujas and processions.